Common name: Masked puffer
General information
The Masked Pufferfish, scientifically known as Arothron diadematus, is a distinctive and charismatic species within the family Tetraodontidae. This pufferfish is easily recognized by its unique coloration, featuring a dark body with a prominent white ring around its eyes, giving the appearance of a mask. The species is not as common in the aquarium trade as some other pufferfish, but it is prized for its personality and interesting behavior.
Details
- Recommended minimum tank volume
- 300 liter (79 gallons)
- Salinity
- S.G. 1.020 to 1.025
- Temperature
- 24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
- Acidity
- pH 8.1 to 8.4
- Average size
- 30 cm (1′)
- Care level
- Moderate to easy Sensitive to water quality.
- Diet
- Omnivore Enjoys varied diet, incl. mollusks.
- Social
- Solo Can be territorial, best kept alone.
- Reefsafe
- No May nip at inverts & corals.
- Aggression
- Semi aggresive May show aggression, esp. in small tanks.
- Captive bred
- No
Taxonomy
- KingdomAnimalsAnimalia
- PhylumChordatesChordata
- ClassRay-finned FishesActinopterygii
- OrderPufferfishTetraodontiformes
- FamilyPufferfishTetraodontidae
- GenusPufferfishArothron
- SpeciesMasked pufferArothron diadematus (Rüppell, 1829)
- SynonymsTetraodon diadematus Rüppell, 1829
Care
Caring for the Masked Pufferfish requires a spacious aquarium to accommodate its adult size, which can reach up to 30 centimeters (12 inches). They are not reef-safe as they have a tendency to nip at and consume various invertebrates and some corals. A species-specific or fish-only tank with plenty of hiding places and room to swim is recommended. They have a beak-like structure that continuously grows, so it's important to provide hard-shelled foods to help wear down their teeth.
A varied diet consisting of mollusks, crustaceans, and occasionally fish is essential for their health. They are also known for their intelligence and can be trained to accept food from their caretakers' hands.
Reproduction
Reproduction of Arothron diadematus in the home aquarium is rare and not well-documented. In the wild, they are solitary creatures and come together only to breed. After spawning, the eggs are left to develop on their own.
Habitat
The Masked Pufferfish is found in the Indo-Pacific region, from the Red Sea and East Africa to the central Pacific. Their natural habitat includes shallow reefs and lagoons, where they can be seen swimming slowly, often alone or in small groups. They are adept at inflating their bodies when threatened, a characteristic defense mechanism of pufferfish.